Halo 5: Guardians generally had mixed feelings towards it when it was first released. This was mainly because the story was disappointing to a lot of players. Many also felt that the introduction to jetpacks and thrusters made the game feel less like a Halo game. Thrusters would see their way back in Halo Infinite as an equipment pickup. Halo 5 isn’t necessarily known for its new weapon introductions. However, one weapon was a stand-out that has made its way back into Halo Infinite: the Hydra.
The Hydra is back in Halo Infinite better than ever. With its ability to lock on to targets, deal acceptable damage, and work in any situation, this weapon is great for newcomers and skilled players alike.
Hydra General Information
- Weapon Type: Launcher
- Manufacturer: Chalybs Defense Solutions
- Ammunition Type: Explosive/Kinetic
- Magazine Size: 6
- Rate of Fire: Semi-Automatic
- Perfect Time To Kill (Multiplayer): 3 Shots (Unguided), 4 Shots (Guided)
The Hydra is a launcher in Halo Infinite that fires six mini rockets or micro-missiles. This weapon also is semi-automatic but has a fixed firing rate. You can’t fire as quickly as you want even though it is semi-automatic. However, you can hold down the fire button to continue automatically shooting.
In Halo Infinite, the Hydra does have some splash damage. Don’t expect the splash damage or radius to be on the same level as the M41 SPNKR (Rocket Launcher). The explosion radius is small, however, it is still very possible to kill multiple enemies at the same time with it. They just have to be bunched together. Objective game types are great for this weapon.
The unique mechanic is that this weapon allows the player to choose between guided or unguided missiles. When using unguided missiles, the Hydra does more damage, but you won’t be hitting other players from long range. Guided missiles are very accurate even at extremely long ranges. This mode however also does less damage, requiring an extra shot to kill the person.
Related Guide: How to Climb the Ranks of Halo Infinite’s Multiplayer
Best Maps to Use the Hydra in Halo Infinite
The Hydra is one of the most versatile weapons in Halo Infinite. This weapon works perfectly for any map. Even though it only spawns on Big Team Battle maps and Behemoth, you can still encounter this weapon on all maps depending on what game mode you play.
For the most part, it is best to not use the guided missiles on Arena maps. Unless that map is Behemoth, due to that map being larger compared to others. However, for other maps, there isn’t much need to lock on opponents unless your aim is just awful. If that is the case then you should practice Halo Infinite with the Hydra more.
On the other hand, don’t be afraid to use the guided firing mode on Big Team Battle modes. You will be doing damage to players from a good amount of distance. It won’t be that of a Sniper or Shock Rifle in Halo Infinite, but it will be close. Using this firing mode while playing defense is a legitimate strategy. You will take down any players trying to capture a point or steal your flag.
Hydra Tips and Tricks
Hydra’s versatility is what set it apart from other weapons in Halo Infinite. If you are confident in your aim, then using unguided missiles is your best bet a scoring kills. This mode is essential in close-range battles because guided missiles are practically useless in this situation.
New Halo Infinite players need to know when to swap Hydra firing modes when it calls for it. Other than that though, the Hydra is an easy weapon to pick up and use. There are some small tips that are worth noting though.
Splash Damage
The Hydra has a small blast radius no matter what firing variation that you use. You can use this to your advantage to take out or damage multiple players trying to capture a point. Also, sometimes it is best to shoot the ground or wall near your opponent instead of going for direct hits. Some damage is better than no damage at all. Splash damage is better utilized when using the unguided firing mode.
Lock On For Long Distance with the Hydra in Halo Infinite
When playing on Big Team Battle maps that have wide-open spaces, this weapon is a godsend. The Hydra can easily take out your enemies in Halo Infinite’s multiplayer from very far away when using the lock-on and guided missiles.
It takes a couple of seconds to lock on, but once it is on someone, begin firing. You will very likely hit every shot unless they run behind cover. This weapon can even compete with the Battle Rifle at long distances.
The Hydra Can Take Down Air Vehicles in Halo Infinite Easily
The lock-on feature works for vehicles as well. While this weapon isn’t ideal to take down ground vehicles, it takes down air vehicles with ease. Air vehicles have less cover and less mobility. Lock on with the Hydra in Halo Infinite and you shouldn’t miss. It will take roughly 6 or 7 shots to take down a Banshee and Wasp.
Unguided Missle For Close Range
This has been touched on a little bit earlier in the article. If you find yourself in a close-quarters battle with this weapon then using the unguided firing mode is the best solution in this situation. Not only does it do more damage, but you will also have more control over where your missiles go.
Related Guide: How to Reach Onyx Rank in Halo Infinite
Cancel Reload
The reload animation of the Hydra can be canceled at any time in Halo Infinite. The reload animation has the player reload each mini rocket individually. This makes it easy to finish off an opponent with one last shot instead of waiting for the whole reload animation. Skilled players will be able to fire a rocket as soon as it is loaded, canceling many animation frames. In Halo Infinite, every second counts.
Conclusion
For the most part, a lot of Halo Infinite’s weapons are balanced and work in a variety of situations. The same can be said for the Hydra. This weapon works at any range, which is rare for a weapon. Not many weapons can do overall good damage at any range. On top of that, the Hydra is great in Halo Infinite multiplayer as an anti-air weapon.
What makes this weapon even more useful is that it isn’t a power weapon. So you can find it on weapon racks easily enough. Its ability to follow locked-on targets, infantry, or vehicle, makes this weapon a force to be reckoned with.
What are your thoughts on the Hydra returning in Halo Infinite? Let us know in the comments.
For more great Halo Infinite tips and tricks, check out our guide on how to use the Ravager weapon in multiplayer.
